Key Aspects of Psychological Research Methods

What is a key limitation of correlational studies in psychological research?

• They can establish cause and effect.

• They are susceptible to misinterpretation of causation.

• They always require manipulation of variables.

• They cannot reveal any relationships.

Which type of observation is known for having high ecological validity?

• Controlled observation

• Naturalistic observation

• Covert observation

• Structured observation

In an experiment, what is the role of the independent variable (IV)?

• It is the measured outcome.

• It is manipulated by the researcher.

• It is kept constant to ensure validity.

• It is an unintended factor affecting results.

Which experimental design involves the same participants in all conditions?

• Independent groups

• Repeated measures

• Matched pairs

• Counterbalancing

What is a strength of using case studies in psychological research?

• They are easy to replicate.

• They provide rich, detailed data.

• They have high generalisability.

• They are free from researcher bias.

What does the correlation coefficient indicate in correlational studies?

• The cause of the relationship

• The direction and strength of the relationship

• The manipulation of variables

• The ecological validity of the study

Which type of sampling method records all occurrences of a behaviour?

• Time sampling

• Event sampling

• Random sampling

• Systematic sampling

What is a key feature of laboratory experiments?

• High ecological validity

• High control and replicability

• Naturally occurring independent variable

• Limited ethical concerns

Which ethical consideration ensures participants can leave a study at any time without penalty?

• Informed consent

• Right to withdraw

• Protection from harm

• Confidentiality

What is the main purpose of operationalisation in research?

• To ensure ethical standards are met

• To provide clear definitions of how variables are measured or manipulated

• To increase the ecological validity of the study

• To enhance the generalisability of the findings